MathScape: Seeing and Thinking Mathematically

Navigation

Chance Encounters: Probability in Games and Simulations

Students investigate probability through games involving coins, number cubes,
and spinners. They represent probabilities using fractions, decimals, and
percents, and compare theoretical and experimental probability. As students
use numeric, verbal and visual representations of probability, they test the
fairness of games involving two independent events. In the last phase, students
collect data, design a simulation game for an activity of their choice and
analyze the actual results compared to the theoretical results.

NCTM Standard: Data Analysis and Probability

Formulate questions that can be addressed with data and collect, organize,
and display relevant data to answer them

Select and use appropriate statistical methods to analyze data

Develop and evaluate inferences and predictions that are based on data

Understand and apply basic concepts of probability

Primary Mathematical Goals

Make and test predictions about the distribution of outcomes from spinners
with unequal probabilities

Conduct experiments to test the fairness of games involving two independent
events

Analyze and create games that are designed to simulate real-world activities

Compare experimental and theoretical probabilities

Use fractions, decimals, and percents to rank the likelihood of events